This is the fifth in a series of bulletin articles recounting important teachings from Vatican II concerning the liturgy.

"[Christ] is present in the sacraments”

(Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, 7)
The Second Vatican Council reaffirmed that Christ is present both in the Eucharist and in the other six sacraments. Each sacrament affirms a different aspect of Christ’s powerful presence. In Eucharist, disciples are brought into deep communion with Christ and one another. When that unity is fractured, Penance is the sacrament of healing that restores communion with Christ and the Church. When sickness and poor health challenge us physically, mentally, and spiritually, Anointing of the Sick is the balm that soothes and heals bodies, minds, and spirits. In Marriage, Christ makes possible the deep bond between the married couple. The couple becomes the domestic church. Through Holy Orders, the priest bears the presence of Christ in order to preside over the sacraments and to build up the Church. Each sacrament thus expresses an aspect of Christ’s unfathomable presence and desire for us.